He has a reported release clause of £35m that Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is considering meeting, although the Gunners will face stiff competition from their Premier League rivals should any formal bid be made.

Yet regardless of transfer speculation, the 27-year-old remains fully focused on his side's exploits in the Maracana.

"I believe Colombia is superior to Uruguay, but we need to show that on the pitch. It will be a big rivalry and now they will increase their battle to beat us," he said.

"Uruguay is a very difficult opponent and we will have to concentrate and be focused if we are to reach the quarter-finals.

"We know Uruguay’s strengths and they know about us, so there will be little surprise of advantage for either team."